People You Should Know: Shayla Cox

I strongly believe that we were all born with talents; every single one of us has some sort of special gift, whether we realize it or not. Some people are fortunate enough to recognize their gifts early on in life while others won’t discover their callings until later. However, when we discovered our gifts/will discover our gifts is not what is most important; what is important is what we chose to do with those gifts once we recognize them. World renowned writer Maya Angelou once said; “I believe talent is like electricity. We don't understand electricity. We use it.” So how will you use your gifts? Will you take your talent of writing poetry to an open mic night and perform in front of a crowd or keep your gift hidden between the pages of your journal? Will you use your beautiful voice to touch the hearts of many or will you save your songs for the shower? Will you display your photographic genius to the world or will you just keep those images hidden away in a file on your computer? You were given your talents for a reason; they are meant to be embraced and cultivated not shunned and neglected. Embracing your talents wholeheartedly takes dedication, hard work, and often times even courage. That is why I have so much respect for those who are able to discover their calling, take their talents, and to turn them into something beautiful, tangible, and fruitful. It is this attitude of entrepreneurship coupled with a love for one's work that allows one to create something bigger than oneself. I feel that Shayla Cox exemplifies this entrepreneurial attitude which will undoubtedly destine her for success. Shayla Cox is a Brookyln, NY based jewelry designer & creator whose self titled jewelry line is nothing short of incredible.

How long have you been making jewelry? What initially got you interested?

 My initial interest came from a documentary on Beatrice Wood. She was a part of the DADA art movement, but then later became known for her pottery. I felt really connected to her and her work. The opportunity to learn this skill presented itself and I learned to throw on a wheel (yes, like in Ghost..lol) creating pottery/vessels, as well as experimenting with free form shapes. I have always had a thing for statement necklaces and about a year ago I decided to fuse those interests.

Do you make all your pieces by hand? How long does it take to complete one piece?

 I do create every piece by hand. As far as the time it takes...it's a process. I like to say 3-4 weeks to be safe. Anything can happen to a piece during the process, and I try not to get too attached to anything until it is completely done!

Are you currently in school or have you graduated? What is/was your major?

 I graduated from the Fashion Institute of Technology and majored in International Fashion Merchandising.

Do you feel that the major you chose prepared you for owning and running your own business?  
At first, I questioned if I went into the appropriate major because upon graduation and for a few years afterwards I always felt too "creative" for my corporate roles. However, they were great learning experiences and now that I have a collection of my own I definitely feel as though I have a better understanding of every level of the business.

Is your jewelry making a full time job for you or do you have another job as well?  

Shayla Cox Ceramic Jewelry is my focus and receives the majority of my attention, but I freelance/consult as well.

What inspires your designs?  

I observe and absorb everything I see. The outcome of my work can be very tribal; I do love to collect images of peoples from around the world. There is so much beauty, say in a village that has little contact with the Western world. I also have a love for the fusion modern/old world architecture and interior design. And lastly, with my experience in Visual Styling/Merchandising I am constantly scanning someone's look for negative space...wondering what I could put in the space to take it to the next visual level.

 What is the biggest lesson you have learned from your journey as a jewelry designer? 

So far, I have definitely had to learn to trust in a team, and know that I can't do EVERYTHING by myself (as an only child it's my natural inclination). For New York Fashion Week, my team and I did a presentation everyday at Lincoln Center...I couldn't have done it without them. It was a lot of work, but it was a success and I am forever grateful to them.

 If you could give someone a quote to live by, what would it be?

 "Everything you can imagine is real." -Pablo Picasso...I try to live by this everyday.

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Make sure you watch these videos of Shayla’s jewelry presentations which took place during Fashion Week.

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I am so taken by the unique shapes and captivating colors in Shayla’s jewelry, it is all so effortlessly beautiful. These statement pieces will definitely add something special to any outfit. I also greatly admire the initiative Shayla took in creating her own platform to display her jewelry during Fashion Week. It is that type of tenacity and passion that turns dreams into realities. Thank you so much Shayla, you’ve got that good good!

Make sure you check out the Shayla Cox Jewelry website by clicking (here).